NFL Draft Round 1 Analysis and Mock Draft Round 2

NFL Draft Day 1 Analysis

Pick Team Player Position Height Weight College

1 Rams Bradford, Sam QB 6'4" 236 Oklahoma

-The Rams may have entertained the thought of moving down from the top spot briefly; however it became evident recently that Bradford was worth the pick. Not only did he address his critics by successfully adding weight while recovering, but he also brings an excitement to a franchise lacking a selling wow factor (excluding Steven Jackson and somewhat OJ Atogwe of course) since the days of the Greatest Show on Turf. Furthermore, of the franchises needing a quarterback, the Rams were in the best position to keep him upright as they have invested significant money into their offensive line, as well as already picked their LT of the future in Jason Smith last year.

2 Lions Suh, Ndamukong DT 6'4" 307 Nebraska

-So much for the Lions putting out rumors about considering Russell Okung at this pick; Suh was on the phone 10 seconds after Bradford started taking pictures with the commissioner. While in the past the Lions have made poor drafting decisions (Charles Rogers, Mike Williams, etc…), they should not miss on this pick. Suh proved throughout his career at Nebraska that he is a dominating interior presence, and his athletic abilities and competitive spirit showed through at the combine as he wowed scouts in every drill, and more shockingly preformed every drill. The addition of Suh will provide the Motor City with a rock in the middle of their D line for years to come.

3 Buccaneers McCoy, Gerald DT 6'4" 295 Oklahoma

-Talk about a player to scheme match made in heaven, McCoy is a DT custom built for the Buccaneers Tampa 2 system. Predicated on the front 4 getting pressure and forcing the QB into mistakes, Tampa’s defense has been severely lacking the last couple seasons as it was anchored up front by the likes of ex-Viking Chris Hovan and Stylez White. McCoy will force teams to double team him as he wrecks havoc in the middle of the line making everyone else’s life (who is on defense) a lot easier. While not as sound against the run as Suh, McCoy is not asked to be in the Tampa 2.

4 Redskins Williams, Trent OT 6'5" 315 Oklahoma

-Many people projected this pick to be Russell Okung, or the biggest rumor leading into the draft was Eric Berry, however in the end it became the fast rising Trent Williams. While Williams showed inconsistency throughout his senior year, he flashed incredible feet and athleticism in the combine while proving versatile throughout the season by playing both tackle positions and even some center in a pinch. His potential is unquestioned and being brought into a zone blocking system in Washington should allow him the best chance to succeed in the NFL.

5 Chiefs Berry, Eric SS 6'0" 211 Tennessee

-While many wrote off Berry to the Chiefs because of Scott Pioli’s statements alluding to that he does not think the safety position is valuable enough to be drafted this high; it was all a smoke screen in the end. Take it from a true ex-patriot in Pioli to play mind games while grabbing the most highly regarded defensive player in all the draft. Berry will step in day 1 and along with Brandon Flowers, Derrick Johnson, and Tyson Jackson, anchor a defense stockpiling solid top 10 talents.

6 Seahawks Okung, Russell OT 6'5" 307 Oklahoma State

-Talk about a stroke of luck for the Seahawks. Once considered a lock to go number 2 to the Lions, Okung experienced a mini slide to the ecstatic Seahawks at 6 due to no fault of his own. While last season Andre Smith fell because of character/weight concerns, Okung fell because scouts fell in love with Trent Williams. Okung proved his worth by impressing at the combine, his pro day, and reportedly in interviews making him a steal for Seattle at 6. Seahawks offensive line coach has already reported that Okung will start from day 1 at left tackle, where he has some big shoes to fill in the retiring perennial pro-bowl tackle Walter Jones.

7 Browns Haden, Joe CB 5'11" 193 Florida

-Mike Holmgren is nothing short of a straight shooter, this became evident during the draft process as all of his interviews revealed his draft strategy. By the time the draft rolled around it was perfectly clear that the Browns wanted Berry at 7 and if he was not there Hayden was their guy. Hayden gives the Browns a dynamic young corner duo as he teams with UTEP/USC alum Eric Wright in a division filled with wide receiver talent. Hayden’s stock may have slipped a bit due to his original poor 40 time at the combine (4.57) however his running of an unofficial 4.41 at the Florida pro day rebounded his stock to its original level of franchise shut down corner.

8 Raiders McClain, Rolando LB 6'3" 254 Alabama

-While a shock to some, in reality it should be a shock to no one. Before the whispers of Anthony Davis, Jason Pierre-Paul, Bruce Campbell, or even Jimmy Clausen began people thought of Rolando McClain as a Raider. McClain is a physical marvel at 6’3” and 254 lbs and has exceptional athleticism for his size which allows him to pass the Al Davis test. However, unlike the selection of DHB last season, McClain is a solid selection for the silver and black, as it seems they are beginning the transition away from the 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. The additions of Kameron Wimbley (3-4 OLB) and Quentin Groves (should be a 3-4 OLB) signal a transition and adding McClain along side of Thomas Howard and Kirk Morrison gives the Raiders one of the top linebacking cores in the NFL. As mentioned in a previous post, watch out for those Raiders if they learn how to draft.

9 Bills Spiller, C.J. RB 5'11" 196 Clemson

-This was the first true head scratcher of the draft for us. Not because Spiller was not worth the pick, far from it, merely just because of how it does not address the Bills needs. With Anthony Davis, still on the board and the emergence of Fred Jackson last season the selection of Spiller can be questioned, however, the trading of Marshawn Lynch has been whispered for weeks now and this may signal the end of the gold-toothed warrior’s time in New York. Don’t take this as a bash session on the selection of Spiller however, far from it, Spiller is a game-breaking prospect on an offense desperately needing explosion as their best threat (Lee Evans) lacks a QB who can throw him the ball. Spiller immediately increases the danger factor of the Bills offense while immediately making the life of whatever QB they choose to start easier as he has soft hands and will be a nice check down option.

10 Jaguars Alualu, Tyson DE 6'3" 295 California

-This became the second head scratcher of the draft, but not because of who they chose, more because of where. Alualu has been coveted by the Jaguars since the Senior Bowl according to multiple sources; however his was still considered a lower first round prospect. But the Jaguars have never been a team to listen to the value of players over their scouting (over trading up for Derrick Harvey, etc…), and Alualu has his upside. He can play both interior rush DT as well as defensive end when called upon, and he has a motor that is nonstop. He reminds us of Peko of the Bengals (no not just because of the hair) because of his nonstop motor and aggressive play style. If he is able to spark the Jaguar’s defense like Peko for the Bengals, it may be Gene Smith who has the last laugh instead of Todd McShay.

11 49ers (From Bears through Broncos) Davis, Anthony OT 6'5" 323 Rutgers

-The 49ers leapfrogged the Dolphins seemingly because their pick was on the trade block and they felt that other franchises would be enamored enough with Davis to trade up and select him. We tend to agree with this as Davis has incredible upside and will immediately upgrade San Francisco’s right tackle position.

12 Chargers (From Dolphins) Mathews, Ryan RB 6'0" 218 Fresno State

-The Chargers realized they loved having a franchise running back in LT and decided that they would like to have another one. They decided to “mortgage the farm” trading away a myriad of picks including their Charlie Whitehurst loot in order to leap over the Seahawks and select California native Ryan Matthews. Matthews’ one cut style and subtle explosion should allow him to succeed in San Diego along side of lightning-bug Darren Sprolles helping make the Chargers’ running attack dangerous once more.

13 Eagles (From 49ers through Broncos) Graham, Brandon DE 6'1" 268 Michigan

- When the Eagles traded up to 13 the world seemed to think it was for Earl Thomas because of Andy Reid’s open love for the Texas safety. However, they fooled us all and added another pass rusher to their already impressive arsenal of quarterback nightmares. Graham fits perfectly into the Eagles scheme being an undersized, rush-first defensive end with a quick first step and the ability to run down a QB from behind. He should be a situational pass rusher in his first season behind the likes of Daryl Tapp and Trent Cole, however his powerful base and motor may allow him to be a solid Philly end for years to come.

14 Seahawks (From Broncos) Thomas, Earl SS 5'10" 208 Texas

-Because of the Seahawks apparent love for the big receiver, many figured this selection would be Dez Bryant. However, Pete Carroll and John Schnider must have had defensive plans in the work as they snag ball hawking safety Earl Thomas. While undersized, Thomas brings an understanding of the game, a knack for getting to the ball, gifted athleticism, and a serious pop in his tackles which had him graded by some over even Eric Berry. Thomas will bring an immediate impact to a 30th ranked Seahawk pass defense (which struggled to force turnovers) next season as he continues to increase in size and strength (he is only 20 years old!), as well as experience.

15 Giants Pierre-Paul, Jason DE 6'5" 270 South Florida

-Do the Giants really need another pass rusher? Apparently the answer is yes, yes they do. JPP proved himself an athletic freak with upside higher than the moon this past offseason, and it landed him behind another amazingly athletic small school player, Osi Umenyiora. This is a perfect situation for JPP as, while freakishly high in potential; he is also raw having only played 1 season of high level college football (junior college transfer). By the time he is ready to be a serious contributor to the Giants, Osi may have moved on, Kiwi may have fizzled out, or Justin Tuck may have been moved, who knows. But as Jim Johnson would say (RIP) it never hurts to have enough pass rushers, especially in a division with a Manning, Romo, McNabb, and the young Kobb.

16 Titans Morgan, Derrick DE 6'3" 266 Georgia Tech

- What better a position to find themselves in that to be drafting the most polished pass rusher the draft has to offer! The Titans lose their aging and frail franchise end in free agency (Kyle Vanden Bosch) only to replace him with a younger, more physically gifted end in Derrick Morgan. Morgan should prove to be a starter from day 1 and bring a much needed presence up front.

17 49ers (From Panthers) Iupati, Mike OG 6'5" 331 Idaho

-What a day for the 49ers offense. First they get potentially the highest upside tackle in the draft, and then they gather the unanimous highest upside guard in the draft! Iupati is a special blend of footwork and controlled rage making him a perfect left guard for the 49er’s as they will try to run Gore down the throats of their opponents. Teamed with Staley, Richal, and Davis the 49ers went from needy to downright greedy with offensive line talent after just the first round.

18 Steelers Pouncey, Maurkice C 6'4" 304 Florida

-This one was no shock to the football world as the Steelers made it no surprise that they would love to pounce on the top center prospect in the draft. Being that center was a position of desperate need for a young Steelers line, and with how thin center was in this draft class, Pouncey was a must have in Pittsburgh. He should help solidify the interior of that offensive line, helping Mendehall to run wild this upcoming season.

19 Falcons Weatherspoon, Sean LB 6'1" 239 Missouri

-The Falcons made it no secret that they were in the market for an upgrade at OLB. Whether that is for Clint Ingram or Mike Peterson only time will tell however smart money says Peterson because of his age. Weatherspoon is a top notch prospect with both solid physical play, as well as leadership intangibles which Mike Smith loves. Sean should prove a nice addition to a young Falcons defense, hopefully replacing the athletic but oft troubled Michael Boley who looked to be a budding star before being allowed to leave to New York because of the headaches he caused.

20 Texans Jackson, Kareem CB 5'10" 196 Alabama

-This pick was surprising because many had linked the Texans to Boise State’s Kyle Wilson; however the lure of high upside and the fact that Jackson faced consistently better high talent than Wilson must have been too much. The Crimson Tide alum surged up boards during the last month from second to mid round project to top 20 pick. Such a movement could make some nervous, however Jackson will be given every possibility to replace Dunta Robinson as the Texans’ top corner. 

21 Bengals Gresham, Jermaine TE 6'5" 261 Oklahoma

-While the Bengals picked Chase Coffman last season to be their next receiving threat, it was evident by the fact that not even the loss of their top 2 tight ends could get him on the field, that Chase was not the answer. The Bengals immediately upgrade their offense here by selecting the top tight end prospect in the draft giving Carson Palmer another weapon in an increasingly dangerous offense.

22 Broncos (From Patriots) Thomas, Demaryius WR 6'3" 224 Georgia Tech

-What a slap in the face this must have been for Brandon Marshall, as well as how unfortunate for Dez Bryant. After being shipped off to the Dolphins for chump change (relative to his talent, not his baggage), Marshall’s heir apparent is selected in the first round in RAW receiver Demaryius Thomas. They have many similar qualities as they both block exceedingly well, and both have size and exceptional speed. For Dez Bryant, looks like all those character concerns that he was so confused about couldn’t be all lies or he would have been chosen here. In an interview after the selection, Demaryius said that Josh McDaniels told him they wanted a, “Good Guy”, consider that the ultimate Bronco Revenge.

23 Packers Bulaga, Bryan OT 6'5" 314 Iowa

-What a match made in heaven. While it must have been unsettling for Bryan Bulaga to spend all of his time in the Green Room, it was well worth the wait. The Packers have been desperately searching for answers along their offensive line and recently resigned veteran Chad Clifton to a 3 year (overpaid) extension, however his injury history makes him unlikely to play 3 full seasons. Bulaga should be able to step in at RT day 1 and help protect the #1 most valuable asset in all of Green Bay, Aaron Rogers.

24 Cowboys (From Eagles through Broncos and Patriots) Bryant, Dez WR 6'2" 225 Oklahoma State

-Pack your bags and wave goodbye to your home state Mr. Roy Williams, because this draft pick has sealed your fate as a cap casualty by next season (unless of course your hands seemingly reappear next season). Dez Bryant fell hard because of character concerns, but when has that ever been a problem for Jerry Jones? Bryant will help fill the void on the Cowboys left by TO, and the void in Jerry’s conscience left by not drafting Randy Moss all those years ago. Dez should step in immediately at the #3 receiver spot behind #1 Miles Austin and #2 Roy Williams (simply because of his salary), however don’t be shocked that if Dez plays well, he could be the #2 by season’s end.

25 Broncos (From Ravens) Tebow, Tim QB 6'3" 236 Florida

-And the mystery of where Tim Tebow will go is finally solved. While raw, Tebow still has the size and intangibles which scouts look for in a QB and will get a chance to develop under Josh McDaniels. Don’t expect Tebow to see the field any time soon however, as he needs developing badly and the Broncos also have Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn on their roster. This can’t be a good sign for the shelf life of Quinn.

26 Cardinals Williams, Dan DT 6'2" 327 Tennessee

-Without having to move up a single spot the Cardinals are able to snag the overwhelmingly considered the #1 nose tackle prospect in the Draft, and J Lo’s pick for the Dolphins. Dan Williams should step in day 1 and help replace departed and senior nose tackle Bryan Robinson, allowing Arizona to finally admit that Gabe Watson and Alan Branch were both failed picks and they simply won’t work at nose (even though they are both for sure big enough).

27 Patriots (From Cowboys) McCourty, Devin CB 5'11" 193 Rutgers

-The Patriots have never been a team to pass up the opportunity to stockpile draft picks, as their time tested method of quantity and production over upside has not failed them yet. McCourty, while not a ball-hawk is a consistent player who graded out exactly where he was picked, just like the Patriots like it. He should contribute as a Nickel corner his first season, however with some time, he could team up alongside recently resigned Leigh Bodden to form a formidable cornerback tandem.

28 Dolphins (From Chargers) Odrick, Jared DT 6'5" 304 Penn State

-Many though this spot was a dream come true for Miami as Sergio Kindle had fallen hard and would be available here to replace recently departed legend Jason Taylor. However, as is usually the case in the NFL draft, expect the unexpected. Even with young Phillip Merhling and Kendal Langford entrenched as solid ends of the future, Bill Parcels goes out and gets another high motor high effort defensive lineman to build depth for Miami. While not flashy Odrick will bring even more hustle and consistency to the Dolphins and will be a nice consistent line piece for years to come.

29 Jets Wilson, Kyle CB 5'10" 194 Boise State

-And the rich get richer. Not only does Rex Ryan have the best corner in the NFL in Darrell Revis, he also recently acquired interception extraordinaire Antonio Cromartie from the Chargers. Add Kyle Wilson, who some considered to be the #1 corner prospect in the NFL and you get the best corner backing set in the NFL. This pick made sense as, when you blitz everyone, your corners have to be good. Peyton manning picked on Donald Strickland, in the AFC championship, Rex Ryan wants to be sure that does not happen again.

30 Lions (From Vikings) Best, Jahvid RB 5'10" 199 California

-We here at the FSB had heard many rumors that the Lions were hot for Best before the draft; however we had no idea that they felt it necessary to trade back into the first round to ensure he was there. Best, a Spiller clone, provides incredible value for where he was picked, if he can stay healthy. He is the perfect change of pace back to grinder back Kevin Smith, and provides another new game breaking weapon around Matthew Stafford along with Tony Scheffler, Brandon Pettigrew, and Nate Burleson.

31 Colts Hughes, Jerry DE 6'2" 255 TCU

-The Superbowl is an unfortunate place for a team to learn where it needs depth the most; however this was the case with the Colts. The injury to Dwight Freeney hurt the Colts in the second half as his ankle tight end back up during the break rendering him ineffective as a pass-rusher. Hughes, built in the same mold as Freeney, will provide the Colts with another pass rusher in case of injury, as well as an heir apparent, as Freeney and Mathis are both not exactly young.

32 Saints Robinson, Patrick CB 5'11" 190 Florida State

-This draft pick comes from the same school of thought as the Jets selection of Kyle Wilson. While not as talented as Wilson, Robinson is a sold athletic corner who excels in man to man coverage which is exactly what the Saints need as they too like to bring the house every down. Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter proved their worth last season, however it never hurts to have more talent in your secondary as the NFL becomes increasingly pass oriented.  Furthermore, this move gives the Saints the ability to kick promising first round Corner Malcom Jenkins to free safety just in case Darren Sharper decides not to return to New Orleans.

NFL Mock Round 2

1. St Louis- Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
Benn had a fair junior year. A late push by DeMariyus Thomas moved Benn down to the 2nd Round

2. Minnesota (via Det)- Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
Clausen will get to learn from Brett Farve. Interesting storyline

3. TB- Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Griffen is a quick pass rusher of the edge, but has yet to show it on tape. Sergio Kindle is another possibility

4. KC- Linval Joseph. NT, East Carolina
Joseph is a fast-rising prospect at DT. He would fill the NT hole in KC’s 3-4 Defense.

5. Phi- Nate Allen, S, South Florida
The Eagles need at safety has been well-noted as they were booed yesterday for passing on Earl Thomas.

6. Cleveland- Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
Holmgren could trade up for Clausen if he wanted to, but McCoy will fit if they run a West- Coast Offense. . . It is also interesting to note that Cleveland offered most of their picks this year for Sam Bradford. And St Louis passed, now that Clausen is still on the board. I might make another call if I am Mike Holmgren.

7. Oakland- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
Oakland gets the mammoth OT they were considering in round 1. He should provide pass protection should JaMarcus Russell not eat his way to offensive line.

8. Miami- Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
Kindle is not as productive as his athleticism would indicate, and he falls because of it and possible injury concerns. However, he is the steal of the draft and should excel as a hybrid linebacker in a 3-4 Defense

9. Buffalo- Charles Brown, OT, USC
If the Bills don’t trade up for Clausen, they look at Defensive and Offensive tackle. Charles Brown has quick feet, and would protect the QB’s blind side whoever it is.

10. Tampa Bay- Chris Cook, CB, Virginia
Tampa takes the tall versatile corner Cook, who fits the Tampa 2.He should supplant Ronde soon

11. Bal- Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
The Ravens try to add weapons to help QB Joe Flacco

12. NE- Lamaar Houston, DT/DE, Texas
The Patriots need to replace Richard Seymour on the line

13. Denver- Jon Asamoah, OG, Illinois
Asamoah is a very good blocker on the 2nd level and would fit in well for the Broncos

14. NY Giants- Sean Lee, ILB, Penn St
The Giants still need to address the middle linebacker position. Penn State isn’t a bad place to choose from

15. New England- Vladimir Ducassee, OG
The Patriots add offensive line help. Ducasse is unpolished but has immense upside and is from a nearby college.

16. Car- Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price slid immensely from his underwhelming workouts. He plays hot and cold on game tape, but is young with potential

17. San Francisco- Taylor Mays, SS, USC
San Francisco adds a playmaker in the defensive backfield. Mays coverage concerns cause him to fall from a guaranteed first rounder last year

18. KC- Roger Saffold, OT, Indiana
Saffold improves a terrible offensive line

19. Houston- Toby Gehart, Stanford, HB
The Texans get the big back they want to split carries with Slaton.

20. Pittsburgh- Amari Speivey, CB, Iowa
The Steelers add a talented young cornerback

21. New England- Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona
Gronkowsi is the blue-collar tight end with soft hands that the Patriots love

22. Cincinnati- Morgan Burnett, S, Georgia Tech
The Bengals could trade up for Taylor Mays, who they covet

23. Philadelphia- Jerome Murphy, CB, South Florida
Eagles add corner depth after offseason trades

24. Green Bay- Dominique Franks, CB Oklahoma
Green Bay needs young corners to backup Charles Woodsen and Al Harris

25. Bal- Corey Wooten, DE, Northwestern
Wooten would play DE in this aging 3 man front

26. Arizona- Koa Misi, OLB, Utah
Misi replaces Bertrand Berry and Chike Okeafor as hybrid pass-rusher

27. Dallas- Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
Mount Cody can move the undersized Jay Ratliff outside on occasion

28. Sea- Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
The Seahawks take the athletic, underachieving end from Florida who was projected as a top pick at the beginning of the year

29. NY Jets- John Jerry, OG, Ole Miss
Allan Faneca is overpaid and a cut candidate. This move could be a pre-emptive move for the future

30. Minnesota- Darryl Washington, OLB, TCU
Washington is a great linebacker for a 4-3 scheme, and may be an upgrade over incumbent Ben Leber

31. Indianapolis- Ed Veldheer, OT, Hillsdale
Colts OL picks tackle from his alma matter

32. New Orleans- Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State
Saints add a rangy outside backer, necessary for their blitzing scheme.